Our Values

Our values

At Karibuni Eco-Cottages, we help preserve and respect local customs and culture whilst promoting environmental conservation and supporting the community in Ndhiwa.

Sustainability
Eco-tourism is a sustainable, ethical way to travel and experience new things whilst taking care of your planet and reducing your carbon footprint. It is defined as “Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people” (TIES, 1990). Visiting Karibuni is a hands-on experience of culture, nature and community which celebrates and helps preserve Ndhiwa for future generations. Guests join our cause in reducing our carbon footprint by using solar power and rainwater harvesting, recycling, composting and even volunteering to plant trees.

Community
Karibuni Eco-Cottages is run on behalf of the local community by the Ndhiwa Community Empowerment and Development Project (NCEDP). The cottages provide employment for residents and an income to support a range of projects. 100% of our profits are reinvested into the community, so by staying at Karibuni you are making a significant contribution to the sustainable development of Ndhiwa.

Education
Education and knowledge are key to sustainable development. Providing accessible education in Ndhiwa means that both individuals and the community as a whole have the opportunity for a better future. Team Kenya, a charity working in partnership with the NCEDP, aims to increase the number of students in education through sponsorship and support programs. Karibuni provides a safe space where these projects can take place and generates income to facilitate many extracurricular activities.

Gender equality
In remote rural areas such as Ndhiwa, traditional practices and attitudes, lack of education and extreme poverty contribute to widespread injustice against girls and young women. NCEDP, which runs Karibuni Eco-Cottages, focuses on empowering the women and girls of the Ndhiwa community. Through support groups, NCEDP encourages these women and girls in reaching their full potential, becoming equal and respected members of society. The groups provide a safe environment as the women learn about accounting, sew school uniforms, make beadwork items for the tourist market and weave using the local hyacinth from Lake Victoria. This last practice not only clears the lake for fishing, but also provides the women with skills to run their own business and provide an income for their families.

Team Kenya and Karibuni Eco-Cottages focus particularly on empowering girls and women, because we believe if you invest in a girl, you can change the world!